10+ popular online cybersecurity training courses for employees in 2024

No organisation's cybersecurity strategy is complete without the active cooperation of its employees. They are the frontline users of your systems, constantly navigating decisions that could protect or jeopardise sensitive information with every click, download, and password they use.

As IT professionals and L&D managers, you know that the human element is the linchpin in your cybersecurity defence. This is where cybersecurity awareness training for employees becomes essential.

Online courses, flexible and dynamic, are an optimal solution for this training. They allow employees to learn at their own pace and are regularly updated to keep pace with the evolving cyber threat landscape. Plus, they are very affordable compared to in-person training.

In this guide, we present a handpicked collection of the best online cybersecurity training courses for 2024 that can be valuable additions to your employee training program curriculum. Each course is designed to be engaging, insightful, and empowering, equipping your employees at all levels to actively contribute to your cybersecurity strategy.

Let's dive in and explore these top-tier courses!

Why cybersecurity training is essential for your employees

In today's digital age, where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, the importance of cybersecurity awareness training for employees cannot be overstated. Let's explore the necessity of such training and the positive impacts it can have on organisational security:

• Preventing data breaches with proactive awareness: A staggering 74% of breaches involve the human element, including social engineering attacks, errors, or misuse, as highlighted in the 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) from Verizon. By empowering staff with the knowledge to identify and react to phishing attempts, organisations can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber attacks. A tangible example of this in action is when employees apply their training to question and report emails that mimic legitimate corporate communication but contain malicious links. This immediate, informed response prevents unauthorised access to secure systems and wards off malware that could compromise organisational data.
• Ensuring regulatory compliance: In a landscape governed by stringent regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), employee training in cybersecurity becomes a linchpin for compliance. Properly educated employees are key assets in adhering to these legal frameworks, effectively minimising the risk of non-compliance penalties. For instance, staff well-versed in privacy laws can ensure customer data is handled and processed securely, demonstrating a clear commitment to regulatory standards and safeguarding the organisation against legal and financial repercussions.
• Protecting company reputation: A single cyber incident can inflict lasting damage on a company's reputation. Training employees in secure information management and communication is crucial to averting such crises. A practical example is the adoption of encrypted communication channels by employees for transmitting confidential information, significantly diminishing the likelihood of data breaches and preserving the organisation’s credibility in the eyes of customers and stakeholders.
• Facilitating digital transformation with confidence: Cybersecurity training empowers organisations to undertake digital transformation initiatives confidently, reducing IT departments' concerns about increased vulnerabilities. By educating employees on cybersecurity practices, the fear of potential system failures is alleviated, enabling smoother integration of new digital technologies. This informed workforce can securely utilise and adapt to these technologies, ensuring that the organisation's digital evolution enhances its capabilities without sacrificing security.
• Enhancing incident response times: Effective cybersecurity training significantly improves an organisation's incident response times. With 55% of IT leaders depending on employees to alert them to cybersecurity incidents, as revealed by the Insider Data Breach Survey 2021, the ability of staff to quickly recognise and respond to security threats is invaluable. This training ensures that employees are not just bystanders but active participants in the cybersecurity ecosystem, capable of identifying suspicious activities and mitigating the impact of potential breaches.
• Promoting safe remote work practices: Cybersecurity training tailored for remote and hybrid work models equips employees with the strategies to navigate the distinct security challenges these environments present. This includes the secure use of Wi-Fi networks, the importance of VPNs for encrypting data, and the necessity of regular software updates to thwart cyber threats. By instilling best practices for remote work, organisations ensure that employees can maintain the integrity of company data, regardless of their physical location, safeguarding against unauthorised access and data breaches.

Overall, by integrating comprehensive cybersecurity training into your employee development programs, you are not just enhancing your immediate security posture but are also investing in the long-term resilience of your organisation against cyber threats.

10+ popular online cybersecurity training courses for employees in 2024

To arm your workforce with the necessary tools and insights, we've curated a list of the top online cybersecurity courses for 2024. These selections are tailored to cater to a wide range of learning needs, from those new to cybersecurity to seasoned professionals looking to update their skills. Each course has been chosen for its relevance, quality of content, and ability to deliver engaging and practical cybersecurity education.

Dive into the course details below to select the ones that best align with your organisation's cybersecurity training objectives.

1. Cybersecurity Bootcamp course by CyberProStudy Ltd.

The Cybersecurity Bootcamp by CyberProStudy Ltd. is designed to equip individuals with essential skills to protect personal data across computers, laptops, and mobile devices. This course delves into best practices for device security, understanding social engineering, the importance of software updates, strong passwords, and the utilisation of VPNs to safeguard against cyber threats. Overall, it is a great resource to offer basic cybersecurity training for employees.

Key learning outcomes:

• Master best practices for securing personal and professional devices.
• Identify and counteract social engineering tactics used by hackers.
• Implement strong password policies and understand the significance of 2FA/MFA.
• Recognise various types of malware and learn strategies for safe browsing and communication.

Who can benefit:

Suitable for all users of electronic devices looking to enhance their personal data protection and gain a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity threats.

Duration and format:

1.5 hours of on-demand video content, accessible online for flexible learning.

Cost:

This is a paid course; please refer to the registration page for the latest pricing details.

Registration page link

2. Security Awareness Training, Internet Security for Employees course by Roy Davis

This course is meticulously designed by Roy Davis to enhance security awareness among employees and individuals. It focuses on the foundational aspects of internet security, aiming to build resilience against cyber threats. The course covers a broad spectrum of topics, from recognising social engineering and phishing attempts to safe browsing habits and secure communication practices.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand the rationale behind security awareness to enhance retention.
• Build resilience against various cyber attacks including phishing and social engineering.
• Identify and avoid malicious websites and emails through easy-to-follow practices.
• Adopt best practices for password creation and security question formulation.

Who can benefit:

Ideal for anyone looking to improve their online security awareness, from personal users to employees across various sectors. It's also beneficial for IT professionals seeking effective ways to educate users on cybersecurity.

Duration and format:

The course offers 1 hour of on-demand video, making it a concise yet comprehensive learning experience.

Cost:

It is a paid course, with special pricing available for team enrollments.

Registration page link

3. Basic Digital Security course by Lingio

This course is part of Lingio’s growing portfolio of courses providing free cybersecurity training videos for employees. It equips participants with the knowledge to safeguard sensitive data against sophisticated cyber threats. This beginner-friendly course covers crucial topics like firewalls, antivirus software, and scammer recognition, ensuring employees can navigate digital realms securely.

Key learning outcomes:

• Grasp essential cybersecurity principles and defences.
• Learn to recognise and protect against online scams.
• Understand the importance of password security and online privacy.
• Navigate digital spaces safely, focusing on secure email practices and surfing.

Who can benefit:

Ideal for all employees transitioning to digital platforms, especially those in roles with increasing digital access and responsibilities.

Duration and format:

Visit Lingio's platform for detailed course duration and format.

Cost:

Completely free after signup.

Demo page link

4. Cybersecurity for Everyone course by the University of Maryland

This is a comprehensive course designed to demystify cybersecurity for learners of all backgrounds. Whether you're a novice or a professional, this course, led by Dr. Charles Harry, a seasoned expert with NSA experience, offers foundational knowledge. It explores key issues from technical aspects to policy considerations and risk management.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand the technical foundations and key issues of cybersecurity.
• Explore domestic and international policy considerations, governance, privacy, and risk management.
• Learn applications for achieving enterprise, institutional, or national security goals.

Who can benefit:

This course is ideal for individuals with varying levels of technical background, including novices and those active in the cybersecurity field, offering insights into the broader context and business aspects of cybersecurity.

Duration and format:

The course requires approximately 21 hours to complete over 3 weeks, available on demand for flexible learning.

Cost:

Included with a Coursera Plus paid subscription.

Registration page link

5. Top Tips for Staff by National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC)

This is a complimentary cybersecurity course by the National Cybersecurity Centre designed to bolster the cyber awareness of staff across organisations. Recognising employees as a critical line of defence against cyber threats, this course offers practical, accessible training to enhance cybersecurity knowledge in less than 30 minutes.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand the importance of cybersecurity and common attack methods.
• Learn defences against phishing and the creation of strong passwords.
• Acquire best practices for securing devices and reporting incidents.

Who can benefit:

Especially suitable for SMEs, charities, and the voluntary sector, but applicable to any non-technical audience across various organisations looking to improve their cyber defences.

Duration and format:

A concise, engaging 30-minute online learning experience, designed for integration into existing training platforms. No login is required to access this on-demand course.

Cost:

Free to access.

Registration page link

6. Free cybersecurity training course by ESET

ESET offers free cybersecurity awareness training for employees in a user-friendly online course format. The course adopts a comprehensive approach to encourage awareness and support security frameworks, making it ideal for individuals and organisations looking to bolster their cyber defences.

Key learning outcomes:

• Gain insights into email and web protection, including Wi-Fi, IoT, and search engine security.
• Understand social engineering, recognise scams, and learn protective measures.
• Overview of threats such as malware, phishing, and insider threats.
• Learn best practices for password policies and the importance of 2FA.
• Tips for maintaining security while working remotely.

Who can benefit:

This course benefits anyone looking to improve their personal or organisational cybersecurity posture.

Duration and format:

Details about the course's duration and format can be found after requesting course access by filling out a form.

Cost:

Free to access.

Registration page link

7. Cybersecurity For Normal People: Protect Yourself Online by Brad Merrill

This course offers a practical roadmap to enhancing your digital security. This beginner-friendly course is designed to make you aware of common cyber threats and equip you with the tools to protect your online presence effectively.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand and guard against common cyber threats.
• Develop secure browsing habits and secure your smartphone.
• Create and manage strong passwords and use two-factor authentication.
• Leverage encryption to protect your data.

Who can benefit:

Ideal for anyone looking to improve their personal online security with no prior knowledge required

Duration and format:

1.5 hours of on-demand video content.

Cost:

The course is paid. Please refer to the registration page for pricing details.

Registration page link

8. Introduction to Cybersecurity Tools & Cyber Attacks by IBM Skills Network Team

This course offers a foundational understanding of cybersecurity through the lens of historical events, providing insights into the evolution of security. It covers various types of malicious software and key cybersecurity concepts, tools, and best practices.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand the history and types of cyber attacks.
• Learn about the CIA Triad, access management, and incident response.
• Get acquainted with essential cybersecurity tools like firewalls, antivirus, and digital forensics.

Who can benefit:

Ideal for anyone seeking a basic understanding of cybersecurity or starting a career in the field.

Duration and format:

Approximately 18 hours, flexible learning at your own pace.

Cost:

This is a paid course, part of an 8-course professional certificate.

Registration page link

9. Information Security Management Fundamentals for Non-Techies by Alton Teaches LLC

This course introduces non-technical individuals to the essentials of information security management, covering core principles and strategies to protect IT and business infrastructure.

Key learning outcomes:

• Grasp the fundamentals of information security management.
• Gain a working understanding of IT security aspects.
• Set a foundation for advanced information security studies.
• Enhance the protection of business and IT infrastructure.

Who can benefit:

Ideal for non-techies, business and IT managers, and aspiring IT professionals needing a foundational understanding of information security.

Duration and format:

Offers 12.5 hours of on-demand video.

Cost:

This is a paid course.

Registration page link

10. Security Awareness for Employees: Cybersecurity 2024 by Martins Gills

Martins Gills' course is a comprehensive guide to enhancing cybersecurity awareness among employees. It addresses the critical need for data protection, both personal and company-wide, and offers strategies to combat social engineering attacks. The transition to remote work has highlighted the importance of securing work environments, making this course essential for modern professionals.

Key learning outcomes:

• Develop strategies to protect personal and company data.
• Recognise and counter social engineering and phishing attempts.
• Establish and manage secure passwords.
• Maintain data security across both personal and professional spheres.

Who can benefit:

Office workers, accountants, developers, managers, salespersons, and anyone interested in bolstering their information security knowledge.

Duration and format:

1.5 hours of on-demand video content.

Cost:

This is a paid course.

Registration page link

11. Security Awareness Training by ISC2

ISC2's Security Awareness Training offers foundational security awareness for organisations aiming to protect their information assets. This comprehensive program covers a wide range of topics relevant to nearly every type of end-user, designed to be modular and engaging with real-world scenarios.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand the critical importance of security in protecting information assets.
• Learn best practices for data and account security, including effective password management.
• Gain insights into networking and mobile security, malware threats, and how to counter social engineering.

Who can benefit:

Suitable for all organisational members, regardless of their role, seeking to enhance their understanding of information security.

Duration and format:

Approximately 2 hours long and available on demand.

Cost:

The course is paid, with a free audit version available offering access to all course materials except graded items.

Registration page link

12. End User Cyber Fundamentals by Cybrary

Cybrary's End User Cyber Fundamentals course educates users on navigating the internet securely, covering risks such as typosquatting and malvertising, and providing security best practices.

Key learning outcomes:

• Understand internet risks and how to protect against them.
• Navigate social media, public cloud storage, and IoT securely.
• Apply security and privacy settings effectively across platforms.

Who can benefit:

Individuals seeking to improve their internet security awareness.

Duration and format:

1 hour and 45 minutes, on-demand.

Cost:

Free after signup.

Registration page link

Need something specific? Create custom cybersecurity courses with AI

After introducing you to some top off-the-shelf online cybersecurity training courses, discussing the transformative potential of custom cybersecurity courses is crucial.

Generic cybersecurity training can only go so far. Each organisation has its unique vulnerabilities, employee roles, and compliance requirements.

Custom cybersecurity courses address these specifics, making training more relevant, engaging, and effective. When courses can be created quickly and without excessive costs, organisations are better equipped to respond to emerging threats, ensuring their teams are up-to-date with the latest security practices.

Lingio: Pioneering rapid AI-powered custom cybersecurity course development

Lingio is not just offering state-of-the-art cybersecurity courses for free - it's a novel AI-powered platform for building custom courses tailored to your organisation's unique needs and interests. With Lingio's AI, creating personalised course content takes seconds, not hours. This efficiency transforms the daunting task of course creation into a swift, enjoyable process.

Lingio stands out with features that make it a preferred choice for large corporations and public authorities alike:

• Superfast course generation: Upload your material, and Lingio's AI instantly crafts it into an interactive, engaging course. Customise further with AI-generated questions and relevant imagery from the photo library, making course deployment quick and effortless.
• Gamified learning experience: Developed by experts with backgrounds from EA Games and Spotify, Lingio's courses incorporate innovative gamified learning elements to make education enjoyable.
• Mobile-first approach: Designed for the modern workforce, Lingio's courses perfectly suit mobile devices, ensuring accessibility for employees in any location or role.
• Trusted and verifiable content: Courses are built using reliable sources, with the added assurance of human editorial oversight to verify AI-generated content for accuracy and relevance.
• Inclusive and multilingual: Lingio breaks down language barriers by supporting over 100 languages, making it an inclusive platform for diverse workforces.
• Comprehensive coaching portal: With Lingio, tracking and managing training outcomes is straightforward, thanks to its intuitive coaching portal that offers real-time engagement and completion data.

Get started with Lingio for free and discover how easy it is to enhance your cybersecurity training with custom courses.

Take action: Empower your frontline staff with a hybrid cybersecurity course portfolio strategy

In the digital battleground, where cyber threats evolve rapidly, the first line of defence should be an informed and vigilant workforce.

The integration of leading cybersecurity courses into your employee training programs is crucial, yet the uniqueness of each organisation's risk profile demands a more tailored approach. This is where the innovation of a hybrid cybersecurity course strategy, complemented by Lingio's AI-first capabilities, becomes a game changer.

Begin by selecting from the array of suggested cybersecurity courses, each designed to address various cyber awareness and protection aspects. These courses, ranging from basic digital security fundamentals to advanced cyber attack prevention techniques, provide a solid foundation for employees at all levels.

Next, leverage Lingio’s AI-powered course creation platform to build on this solid foundation with customised content that directly addresses your organisation's unique cybersecurity challenges.

Ultimately, by combining the broad coverage of pre-existing courses with tailored content that reflects the specific challenges and threats your organisation faces, you create a comprehensive training program that not only educates but also engages and empowers your workforce to become your best line of defence.

FAQs

1. How to choose the right cybersecurity training courses for employees?

To choose the right cybersecurity training courses for employees, consider three key factors - organisational needs, employee roles, and their exposure to sensitive information. Identify specific security risks and compliance requirements, assess the roles for tailored training focus, and select courses that match the employees' current knowledge level and learning preferences. This approach ensures relevant, effective training that enhances your organisation's cybersecurity posture.

2. Which online course is best for cybersecurity training for employees?

The ‘best’ online cybersecurity course varies based on individual and organisational needs, including the required expertise, specific areas of interest, desired outcomes and the overall security awareness budget. Courses from reputable providers like Coursera and Udemy, featuring content from industry leaders and academic institutions, are highly regarded. Researching and selecting a course that aligns with your cybersecurity goals, whether for foundational knowledge or advanced skill development is essential.

3. What are some recommended online cybersecurity training courses for employees?

For effective cybersecurity training, consider these top online courses, many of which provide free cybersecurity training for employees and meet various learning needs and organisational requirements:

1. Cybersecurity Bootcamp by CyberProStudy Ltd.: Covers essential skills for personal and professional data protection, including tactics to counteract social engineering and implement strong password policies.
2. Security Awareness Training, Internet Security for Employees by Roy Davis: A foundational course aimed at building resilience against cyber threats through understanding social engineering, phishing attempts, and secure communication practices.
3. Basic Digital Security by Lingio: A complimentary course offering essential knowledge on safeguarding against cyber threats, ideal for employees transitioning to digital platforms.
4. Cybersecurity for Everyone by University of Maryland: Provides a broad overview of cybersecurity, from technical aspects to policy considerations, suitable for a wide audience.
5. Top Tips for Staff by National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC): Offers quick, practical training to enhance cyber awareness in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy workforce.

These courses have been selected for their comprehensive content, flexibility in learning, and ability to address the core aspects of cybersecurity awareness and protection. Engaging with any of these resources can significantly bolster your organisation's defence against cyber threats.

4. How do I train my employees for cybersecurity?

An effective cybersecurity training program for employees is characterised by engaging content that captures attention, practical exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, regular updates to incorporate the latest cyber threats, and customisation to align with the specific roles and responsibilities within the organisation. This approach ensures that all employees not only understand the importance of cybersecurity but also know how to apply best practices in their daily activities.

5. How to measure the effectiveness of cybersecurity training for employees?

To measure the effectiveness of online cybersecurity training for employees, track improvements in behaviour and awareness, assess the reduction in security incidents, conduct regular knowledge assessments, and gather feedback on confidence and understanding in handling cyber threats. Analysing these metrics provides a comprehensive view of the training's impact on an organisation's cybersecurity program.

How do we engage employees in cybersecurity training effectively?

To effectively engage employees in cybersecurity training, utilise interactive and realistic scenarios, embed gamification for an enjoyable learning experience, tailor content to individual roles, and incentivise completion. This approach enhances participation and fosters a proactive cybersecurity culture.

How often should cybersecurity training be updated and conducted?

Cybersecurity training should be updated and conducted regularly, ideally every quarter, to keep pace with the rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats. This frequency ensures that employees are always informed about the latest threats and defence mechanisms. Additionally, leveraging tools like Lingio's AI course creator can streamline the process of updating courses. By simply uploading new or updated content, training materials can be refreshed in no time, ensuring that the workforce remains vigilant and well-prepared against emerging cyber challenges.

Sources:

1. Verizon Business, (2023), 2023 Data breach investigations report
2. Egress, (2021), Insider data breach survey 2021